Filter element and method of filtration

Abstract

The filter element for use in a container includes a central pipe (2) closed along its length and also provided with an opening at a lower end thereof; a cylinder surrounding this central pipe in a concentric manner and having a closable lower end, the closable lower end of the cylinder projecting beyond the lower end of the central pipe and being provided with a base; and at least two cylindrical filter means (1), which are arranged radially and symmetrically with respect to the cylinder and which communicate with the cylinder, and a group of connecting pipes, each of the cylindrical filter means being connected by one of the pipes with the cylinder.

We claim: 
     
       1. Filter element for use in a container, comprising a central pipe (2) extending over a length and having a lower end, said central pipe being closed along said length and also being provided with an opening at said lower end; and a cylinder surrounding said central pipe in a concentric manner and having a closable lower end, said closable lower end of said cylinder projecting beyond said lower end of said central pipe and being provided with a base; at least two cylindrical filter means (1) which are arranged radially and symmetrically with respect to said cylinder, and a plurality of pipes, each of said cylindrical filter means being connected by one of said pipes with said cylinder so as to communicate therewith. 
     
     
       2. Filter element according to claim 1, wherein the cylindrical filter means comprise monofilament woven material. 
     
     
       3. Filter element according to claim 2, wherein the monofilament woven material comprises metal. 
     
     
       4. Filter element according to claim 1, further comprising an additional filter means (1) provided in the base (5) of the cylinder (4). 
     
     
       5. Filter element according to claim 1, further comprising a collecting pipe (6) communicating with said central pipe and a compressed gas distributor pipe (7) communicating with said cylinder and arranged beneath said collecting pipe. 
     
     
       6. A method of filtration comprising the steps of providing a filter element comprising a central pipe (2) having a length and a lower end, said central pipe being closed along said length and also being provided with an opening at said lower end, and a cylinder surrounding said central pipe in a concentric manner and having a closable lower end, said closable lower end of said cylinder projecting beyond said lower end of said central pipe and being provided with a base, and at least two cylindrical filter means (1) which are arranged radially and symmetrically with respect to said cylindrical, and a plurality of pipes, each of said cylindrical filter means being connected to said cylinder by one of said pipes; and directing a flow of medium through said cylindrical filter means and further through said cylinder and said central pipe, a collecting pipe communicating with said central pipe.